It is formed by the union of the Middle and Levitt branches in Barrett Township in Monroe County. The native name was "Analomink." The present name was given for Daniel Brodhead, a prominent early settler. It receives McMichael Creek as it flows south and east into the Delaware River. At one time it was called Smithfield Creek after receiving McMichael Creek.[citation needed]

The stream flows south, separating the boroughs of Stroudsburg and East Stroudsburg. It covers a basin of 294 sq mi and its maximum discharge was 68,800 cubic feet per second, in 1955.[citation needed]